Lane Filtering in Colorado
Effective today, August 7, motorcyclists in Colorado will be able to lane filter legally. In 2024, Colorado joined a growing number of states that have legalized lane filtering for motorcycles. The primary goal of this new law is to protect motorcyclists – some of the most vulnerable motorists on Colorado’s roadways.
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, it’s crucial to consult with a Colorado motorcycle accident attorney who can help you recover fair compensation. At Alpha Accident Lawyers, we maintain a 99% success rate and are dedicated to helping accident victims obtain justice. Read on to learn more about Colorado’s new lane filtering law and how to lane filter safely.
Lane Splitting vs. Lane Filtering
Lane filtering allows motorcyclists to move between stopped cars, typically at traffic lights.
Lane splitting or white lining refers to motorcyclists riding between lanes of moving traffic in the same lane. Lane splitting is currently not legal in Colorado.
Is Lane Filtering Legal in Colorado?
Yes, Colorado is now a lane filtering state. This practice became legal with the when Senate Bill 24-079 was signed into law, allowing motorcyclists to filter between lanes of stopped traffic under certain circumstances. This new law aims to decrease the risk of rear-end collisions for motorcyclists and improve overall traffic flow.
Colorado State Patrol (CSP) and the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) hope the technique ultimately leads to safer roadways for motorcyclists. It’s important to note that this law will go through a 3-year test, as it is set to automatically repeal on September 1, 2027.
Before the repeal, CDOT will analyze safety data on motorcycle rear-end and side-swipe collisions before and after the legalization of lane filtering. Then, it will be determined whether the new law will be revised or extended or if lane filtering will be banned altogether.
Colorado’s Requirements for Lane Filtering
Colorado’s lane filtering law has several requirements that motorcyclists must follow to perform this practice legally. It is legal to lane filter in Colorado if all of these conditions are followed:
- Lane filtering is only allowed when traffic is at a complete stop.
- The road has lanes wide enough to pass safely.
- The rider must pass safely and maintain control of the motorcycle.
- Motorcyclists must ensure that their speed does not exceed 15 miles per hour while filtering.
- The rider must pass on the left and not enter the oncoming traffic lane.
Colorado Motorcycle Accident Statistics
- According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), in 2020, motorcycle riders accounted for 14% of all traffic fatalities in the United States, despite motorcycles making up only 0.6% of all vehicle miles traveled.
- In 2021, approximately 82,686 motorcyclists were injured in traffic crashes.
- Motorcyclists aged 25-29 accounted for the highest percentage of motorcycle fatalities in 2020, followed closely by riders aged 30-34.
- According to the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), there were 134 motorcycle rider fatalities in 2023.
Motorcycle Safety Tips
Here are some important motorcycle safety tips all bikers should know:
1. Wear Protective Gear
- Always wear a DOT-approved helmet.
- Invest in gloves, jackets, pants, and boots made of durable materials that offer protection against abrasions and impacts.
- Consider wearing high-visibility clothing or reflective gear to increase your visibility to other motorists.
2. Stay Vigilant
- Use your mirrors frequently to stay aware of your surroundings and the position of other vehicles.
- Look out for potential hazards on the road, such as debris, blown-out tires, potholes, or slick surfaces.
- Be prepared for sudden movements by other vehicles, especially when lane filtering.
3. Maintain Your Motorcycle
- Regularly check your motorcycle’s tires for proper inflation and tread wear.
- Ensure that your brakes, lights, and signals are functioning correctly.
- To avoid mechanical failures, keep your motorcycle’s fluids, such as oil and coolant, at the appropriate levels and perform routine maintenance.
4. Lane Filter Safely
- When lane filtering, move slowly and cautiously between lanes, adhering to the 15 miles per hour speed limit.
- Avoid filtering near large vehicles, such as trucks or buses, which have larger blind spots and may not see you.
- Do not filter if the space between vehicles is too narrow.
5. Avoid Poor Weather Conditions
- Avoid lane filtering in poor weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or fog, which can reduce your visibility and traction.
- If you must ride in inclement weather, reduce your speed and increase your following distance.
We Represent Motorcycle Accident Victims
At Alpha Accident Lawyers, we understand the complexities and challenges that motorcycle accident victims face. Our Colorado personal injury law firm is dedicated to helping individuals injured in auto accidents.
We can help you gather evidence, build a strong claim, and negotiate with the insurance companies. Our personal injury attorneys maintain a 99% success rate and have won millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for our clients.
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, our team is here to provide the legal advocacy and support you need to win your case. Call us today for a free consultation.
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